Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly are the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and a kick of heat, making them an ideal choice for gatherings or a delightful snack at home. These bite-sized treats feature a rich, cheesy base enhanced by the zesty sweetness of hot pepper jelly, which creates a mouthwatering combination that will leave your guests asking for the recipe!

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 24 appetizers
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 95 calories
• Protein: 2.5 grams
• Carbohydrates: 7.5 grams
• Fat: 7 grams
• Fiber: 0.2 grams
• Sugar: 1.5 grams
• Sodium: 80 mg

Why Make This Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly

These Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers are not only incredibly tasty, but they are also quick and easy to make, making them a fantastic choice for both novice and experienced cooks alike. Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a potluck, or simply want to treat yourself and your family, these appetizers deliver big flavor with minimal effort. The gentle warmth of the hot pepper jelly paired with the creamy, cheesy filling provides a delightful contrast that will tantalize your taste buds and impress everyone around the table.

How to Make Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly

Ingredients:

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
• 1/3 cup hot pepper jelly
• Fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

• Step 1: Preparation

  In a large bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.

• Step 2: Mixing

  Mix in shredded cheddar cheese until fully combined, creating a luscious cheesy mixture.

• Step 3: Forming the Dough

  Add flour, salt, and garlic powder (if using); mix until a dough forms. The texture should be pliable and slightly tacky.

• Step 4: Chilling

  Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This helps the dough firm up for easier handling.

• Step 5: Preheating

  Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

• Step 6: Shaping the Appetizers

  Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

• Step 7: Creating the Thumbprint

  Press your thumb into the center of each ball to create an indentation. Don’t worry if they crack slightly; this adds to their charm!

• Step 8: Filling with Jelly

  Fill each thumbprint indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of hot pepper jelly, making sure it’s well nestled in the center.

• Step 9: Baking

  Bake in the preheated oven for 13–15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling slightly.

• Step 10: Cooling and Garnishing

  Allow the appetizers to cool slightly on the baking sheet. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley, if desired, and serve warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly

These cheesy thumbprint appetizers are versatile and can be served at various gatherings. They make a delightful starter for dinner parties, a fun appetizers for game-day snacks, or a charming addition to a holiday buffet. Pair them with a chilled beverage for a refreshing contrast to the savory, spicy flavor.

How to Store Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their cheesy goodness.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly

1. Cheese Options: Feel free to swap out the sharp cheddar for other cheeses like pepper jack for an extra spicy kick or gouda for a smoky flavor.
2. Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like chives or basil into the dough for an extra layer of flavor.
3. Jelly Alternatives: If hot pepper jelly isn’t your favorite, try using apricot or orange marmalade for a sweet and tangy variation.
4. Make-ahead: The dough can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Form and bake the thumbprints just before serving for optimum freshness.
5. Portion Size: Adjust the size of the balls according to your preference; smaller ones can make great finger foods for larger gatherings.

Delicious Variations

• Sweet and Spicy: Combine hot pepper jelly with a touch of honey for a glistening sweet glaze.
• Savory Infusion: Add spices such as smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture for an added flavor punch.
• Vegetarian Delight: Add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or jalapeños to the cheese mixture for crunch and color.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use low-fat cheese in this recipe?
  Yes, while low-fat cheese may alter the texture slightly, it can still work. Just keep an eye on baking times.

• Can I freeze these appetizers?
  Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked dough balls for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

• What’s the best way to reheat these appetizers?
  For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warm. Avoid the microwave to maintain crispness.

• How can I make these appetizers spicier?
  Mix in crushed red pepper flakes or use a spicier variety of jelly to amp up the heat.

• What can I serve with these appetizers?
  They pair well with a variety of dips, such as ranch dressing or guacamole, and would complement a cheese platter beautifully.

Conclusion

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Their creamy filling, paired with a hint of sweetness and spice, makes them a standout at any gathering. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, these appetizers are a fantastic addition to your kitchen repertoire. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to impress your friends and family with this delectable treat!

Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly

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• Author: lydia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 24 appetizers 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These bite-sized Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers blend creamy cheese with the zesty sweetness of hot pepper jelly, making them an ideal choice for gatherings or a delightful snack.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
• 1/3 cup hot pepper jelly
• Fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Mix in shredded cheddar cheese until fully combined, creating a luscious cheesy mixture.
3. Add flour, salt, and garlic powder (if using); mix until a dough forms. The texture should be pliable and slightly tacky.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Press your thumb into the center of each ball to create an indentation.
8. Fill each thumbprint indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of hot pepper jelly.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 13–15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling slightly.
10. Allow the appetizers to cool slightly on the baking sheet and garnish with fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Make-ahead dough can be prepared a day in advance and kept in the refrigerator. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 appetizer
• Calories: 95
• Sugar: 1.5g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 7.5g
• Fiber: 0.2g
• Protein: 2.5g